Camping in Krajina
Why choose Krajina
Camping here puts you close to both adventure and city life. You can raft the Vrbas in the morning and stroll through Banja Luka’s lively streets in the evening. The climate is warm in summer but less hot than Herzegovina, with long sunny days. Food is hearty, with trout from the rivers and local cheeses from mountain farms. Many sites have owners who welcome guests with coffee and rakija, which sets the tone for the region’s hospitality.
Best areas at a glance
Banja Luka and Vrbas Canyon
Camps sit near the river with easy access to rafting and kayaking. Expect a mix of lively rafting centres and calm pitches for caravans.
Kozara mountain
Forested slopes with mountain huts and a few small camps. Popular for hiking, cycling, and cooler air in summer.
Mrkonjić Grad and Pliva lakes
Clear lakes with camps and bungalows on the shore. Good choice for fishing, kayaking, and quiet family breaks.
Gradiška and Posavina edge
Sites close to the Sava river and border crossings. Handy if you are travelling north into Croatia or just need a one night stop.
When to go
The main season runs from May to September. July and August are warm with average highs around 27°C. Spring and autumn are mild and popular with hikers. Kozara and higher spots are cooler, which makes them pleasant in peak summer. The Vrbas is rafted most often in May and June, but trips run until early autumn. Local events include Banja Luka summer concerts in July and the Kozara Ethno festival in August.
What to expect at camps
Near Banja Luka, camps combine pitches with rafting tours, restaurants, and bars. Outside town you find more peaceful family sites with shaded pitches, basic but clean sanitary blocks, and electric hook ups. Pliva and Balkana lakes have camps with direct access to the water. Wi Fi is common near reception. Many owners can guide you to local hikes or fishing spots.
Getting there and around
Banja Luka has Bosnia’s second largest airport with flights from Europe. The city is on the main road E661, linking to Croatia and central Bosnia. Access to most camps is by paved road with clear signs. Some riverside camps have a short gravel section. Public buses run across the region but a car or camper gives you full freedom. Parking is on site at most camps.
Highlights near camp
- Rafting on the Vrbas river
- Kozara National Park and its WWII monument
- Pliva lakes and the wooden watermills at Jajce
- Banja Luka fortress and cathedral
- Balkana lake for swimming and fishing
Booking tips
Use the Region filter set to Krajina. Narrow down by Theme such as Mountain or Lakeside to find the right match. For rafting camps, check if the listing includes tours or if you need to book separately. If you need a quiet spot, choose a family site rather than a rafting centre. Prices are shown in BAM with an EUR guide. Tourist tax may be collected at arrival depending on the municipality.
Safety and good practice
Wear helmets and jackets on rafting tours and use licensed operators. Rivers can rise quickly after heavy rain. Camps near lakes may have mosquitoes in summer, so bring repellent. Fires are only allowed in designated areas. Respect quiet hours at family sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do camps in Krajina have Wi Fi ?
Yes, most have Wi Fi near reception and often at the pitches.
Can I visit without a car ?
Yes if you stay close to Banja Luka and use taxis, but a car or camper gives you freedom.
Are pets welcome ?
Most camps accept dogs, but check the Pets filter and house rules.
Do I need to book rafting in advance ?
In peak season it is better to book. Many camps can arrange it for you.
Are there camps open all year ?
A few near Banja Luka and on Kozara open year round. Use the All season filter.